A recent study by MSC Cruises has highlighted the significant impact of children’s food preferences on family holiday plans. The research reveals that 83% of UK parents face mealtime challenges with picky eaters while on holiday.

Birmingham children are identified as the pickiest eaters in the UK, followed closely by those in Newcastle and Leicester.
When planning a family holiday, parents must consider various factors, including accommodation, activities, and often most importantly, food.
Children’s food preferences can significantly influence these decisions, making it essential for travel companies to offer diverse dining options that cater to all tastes.
You can view an interactive map with the results here
Mealtimes often turn into a negotiation process for families with picky eaters. Parents find themselves constantly trying to balance their children’s preferences with the available food options. This can lead to stressful mealtimes and can even impact the overall holiday experience.
The study reveals that 63% of parents allow their children’s food preferences to dictate their travel destinations. Parents often choose destinations that offer a variety of dining options to ensure that their children will have something to eat.
A notable 14% of parents are so concerned about limited food options that they would consider cancelling a trip. Parents want to ensure that their children will have access to food they enjoy, and if a destination does not offer suitable options, they may choose to cancel the trip altogether.
The study also found that 54% of children refuse to try new foods because they “looked weird.” Children often prefer familiar foods and may be hesitant to try something new, especially in an unfamiliar environment. Nearly 60% of children would prefer to eat pizza every day while on holiday.
MSC Cruises offers a variety of international cuisine options on their ships. This diversity ensures that there is something for everyone, including the pickiest of eaters.
From Italian to Asian cuisine, MSC Cruises provides a wide range of dining options that cater to all tastes. In addition to international cuisine, MSC Cruises provides relaxed buffet experiences.
These buffets offer a wide range of food choices, making it easier for families to find something that everyone will enjoy. The relaxed atmosphere of a buffet allows children to explore different foods at their own pace.
One of the unique shore excursions offered by MSC Cruises is a pizza-making class in Italy. This hands-on experience allows families to bond over a fun and educational activity. Children can learn how to make their own pizza, which can encourage them to try new foods.
Another exciting shore excursion is the chocolate-tasting tour in the Caribbean. This tour introduces families to new culinary experiences while satisfying their sweet tooth. Children can learn about the chocolate-making process and sample different types of chocolate.
MSC Cruises’ efforts to cater to picky eaters highlight the importance of understanding and addressing children’s food preferences. By doing so, the cruise line ensures a smooth and enjoyable holiday experience for families.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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